Update: Archer is doing great with single marked retrieve with both bumpers and fake ducks. Held a real duck for first time in sitting with good results, but not pushing it yet. He will "place" and "come from about 100 yrds with 85% success on first command. 15% needs second reminder part way on long distance. He's very steady, almost to a fault. Started multiple marks with wagon wheel training and doing good for two days of it. Loves water, and didn't slow down at all with the cold water from the other day, it was 30 deg that morning. We will progress with wagon wheel up to four bumpers, then start him forcing to a pile to get some distance with his blind retrieves. He doesn't trust it yet if he cant see it. That's it so far, but doing great. And Border collies are made to work in rain or snow outside of Scotland and work all day in any condition. I will definitely have him in a neoprene vest, and probably wont take him at all if there is ice on the water. Also Ill start him more outside for longer periods of time so his undercoat can grow thick. His safety is number one, but I think he will do great. And I am worried about a crippled bird, but we'll get to that when it comes. I can always shoot them on the water.